Originally Posted by Dan

Supposedly BMW did a study in the 1980's that showed exactly that - quicker acceleration got you into taller gears faster. The key is to use a heavier foot but don't wind out the motor. The result was something like 2/3 throttle plus shifting at 3000 RPM or below netted significantly better mileage than babying the throttle. I'm trying to find a link but have had no luck so far.